Registrations for the 2025 National AI Challenge, a hackathon-style initiative from TechIreland for developers from across Ireland to collaborate to build practical AI solutions to address real-world problems, are now open.

The scheduled closing date is August 10, with hundreds of participants expected to sign up.

The challenge is intended to emphasise "people-centred, ethical AI development" across sectors such as fintech, insurtech, health, enterprise solutions, public services, ImmersiveTech and sustainability.

Supported by Enterprise Ireland, Data2Sustain EDIH, Google, and OpenAI, the 2025 challenge has attracted interest and support from prominent industry groups such as ITAG, InsTech.ie, and Eirmersive as well as global companies implementing AI such as Millennium Management and Workday.

Ten leading innovation hubs have stepped forward to serve as challenge venues and host the final in-person day following two weeks of remote collaboration.  

This year, teams are encouraged to develop either innovative solutions or efficiency-driven agentic workflows to tackle pressing industry challenges.

Google and OpenAI will provide participants with complimentary access to their advanced AI tools, along with technical guidance from their teams.

Both organisations have been longstanding supporters of the initiative, ensuring a valuable educational experience for participants.

Now entering its second year, the challenge has expanded its network to include nearly 30 partner organisations and coding communities nationwide to enhance collaboration and impact.

On August 11, all registered participants will be invited to the AI Challenge opening webinar for briefings and guidelines.

Team formation will take place from August 11-21, before the build phase from August 22 to September 4.

There will be a regional in-person presentation day on September 5, from which the finalists will be selected to showcase their projects at the National AI Meet in Galway on September 18, where the winners will be announced.

Participants must be based in Ireland or Northern Ireland, and must be at least 18 years of age. 

"TechIreland is proud to be hosting the second edition of the National AI Challenge, together with our sponsors and supporters," said Brian Caulfield, chair of TechIreland.

"AI is here to stay and will have profound impacts on society. We can’t ignore it. Ireland needs to be a leader in driving considered, ethical adoption of AI. We hope that the National AI Challenge can be a catalyst for that, now and in the future.

Michael O'Dea, senior client advisor at Enterprise Ireland, added: "The energy and ingenuity we anticipate from participants truly reinforce our belief that dynamic AI is the undeniable future of Irish tech innovation.

"These burgeoning Startups are not just developing cutting-edge solutions; they are poised to drive economic growth, create high-value jobs, and solidify Ireland's position as a global leader in responsible and transformative AI."

(Pic: Getty Images)